Module 14 Reflection

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Consider a project you’ve worked on or would like to create. How would you approach it differently if you were focusing on reducing its environmental impact? Think about materials, production methods, or even the purpose of the project itself.

 

Your initial post should be 400-600 words and be sure to cite any resources and reference material.  After your initial post, respond to at least two classmates with comments of 100-200 words each. Share what you found interesting about their post.

 

Your write-up is due by Friday, and your responses to peers are due by Sunday.

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Sample Responses:

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Sample 1:

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I have always enjoyed fitness and wellness and have contemplated starting a business in this industry before. I have brainstormed starting a healthy dessert brand and is something that I hope to do eventually. My target audience would be consumers are increasingly seeking treats that satisfy their sweet tooth without sacrificing their health goals. To build a strong brand, I would focus first on clean, recognizable ingredients. These would include natural sweeteners like honey or dates, plant-based milks, and whole grains. The emphasis would be on transparency and every product label would be easy to read and free of chemical additives. Flavor and texture would be critical, too. I'd invest heavily in recipe development to make sure every dessert feels indulgent even being low in sugar and packed with superfoods. Branding would be centered on wellness and self-care. Bright, cheerful packaging and messaging that celebrates balance rather than restriction would set the tone. Partnerships with dietitians and wellness influencers, and gyms could boost credibility and visibility. With environmental sustainability in mind, my brand's ingredients would be sourced locally and seasonally whenever possible to reduce transportation emissions. I’d lean toward plant-based desserts to avoid animal products which have a high carbon footprint. Organic ingredients would be prioritized not just for health benefits, but because organic farming typically supports better soil health and environmental methods.

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Packaging would be a major focus. Instead of traditional plastic wrappers, I would invest in compostable materials or reusable glass jars. Production methods would aim for low waste and practice mindful techniques. The purpose of the brand itself would also feel different. Rather than just focusing on healthy eating, the mission would expand to creating a healthier planet. Educational workshops and partnerships with local environmental nonprofits would build deeper community connections. This would help create a customer base that’s not just looking for dessert, but for products that align with their values. Overall, by having environmental sustainability as a main brand goal, you are creating a community that believes in bettering the planet one step at a time. 

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Sample 2:

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One project I recently worked on was the design of a promotional magazine for a fictional event—the 2036 Olympics in Nusantara, Indonesia. The magazine highlighted cultural themes, modern infrastructure, and tourism opportunities in the new capital. If I were to approach this project with a focus on reducing its environmental impact, I would rethink several aspects, including materials, production methods, and even the project’s overall distribution strategy.

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First, the material choice would be critical. Instead of using traditional glossy paper, which often contains plastic coatings that make recycling difficult, I would opt for 100% post-consumer recycled paper or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper. Some companies, like Mohawk and Neenah, produce eco-friendly paper lines that offer excellent print quality while minimizing environmental harm ("Mohawk Papers," 2023). This change would not only reduce the need for virgin pulp but also lower the carbon footprint associated with paper production.

Second, production methods would shift toward local and digital-first options. Traditionally, a magazine might be mass-printed and distributed widely, leading to waste if copies go unused. Instead, I would design the magazine to be primarily digital—perhaps an interactive online version optimized for mobile devices, with only a limited run of printed editions for archival or ceremonial purposes. Studies show that digital distribution can dramatically cut emissions related to printing, transportation, and physical waste ("Environmental Impact of Digital Publishing," Green Press Initiative, 2022).

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Furthermore, in selecting inks and dyes, I would choose soy-based or vegetable-based inks over petroleum-based inks, which are harmful to the environment both during production and after disposal. Vegetable-based inks are biodegradable and easier to remove during the recycling process ("The Benefits of Soy-Based Inks," Earth911, 2021).

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